Braves predicted to part ways with $2.5M 7-year veteran amid Spencer Strider's anticipated return originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Atlanta Braves lost several arms early in Spring Training, raising concerns that this season could mirror last year’s struggles. However, Atlanta has responded by becoming one of the best teams in baseball so far—even without key players like Spencer Strider.

“In the latest blow to the Atlanta Braves' starting rotation, right-hander Spencer Strider will begin the season on the injured list after being diagnosed with an oblique strain, manager Walt Weiss told reporters Monday. Strider had been scheduled to start in Monday's spring training finale against Pittsburgh before being scratched,” ESPN wrote.

Despite missing contributors such as Hurston Waldrep, Spencer Schwellenbach, and Strider, the Braves have maintained a strong rotation. The team has turned a corner from last season and now looks to take another step forward with Strider set to return this weekend in Colorado.

“The Braves will reinstate Spencer Strider from the 15-day injured list on Sunday, manager Walt Weiss told reporters before tonight’s walk-off win over Detroit,” MLB Trade Rumors’ Anthony Franco wrote.

Strider’s return brings roster decisions, particularly on the pitching side. Atlanta will likely need to make a move, and one name that could be on the way out is Joel Payamps, whom the Braves acquired this offseason.

“Joel Payamps could be the next roster casualty. He was solid in Milwaukee for a couple of years but just hasn't been able to find it again,” Braves reporter Grant McAuley posted.

The Braves are excited to welcome Strider back and hope he can return to the form he showed in previous seasons. His return adds another high-impact arm to an already deep rotation.

As for Payamps, he signed a $2.5 million deal during the offseason. The results have not matched expectations, making him a likely candidate to be removed from the roster.

More MLB news:

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• Phillies' Dave Dombrowski hints at potential major moves to appease Bryce Harper, Trea Turner

• Mets predicted to reunite with $67M Gold Glove winner, Cy Young finalist to save lackluster season

• Braves predicted to part ways with $71M All-Star, World Series champion amid Spencer Strider return